Green GSM distances itself from viral robbery prank as PH regulator suspends e-taxi unit

Vietnamese electric taxi operator Green GSM has found itself managing an unexpected brand crisis in the Philippines after transport authorities suspended one of its e-taxi units over a driver's involvement in a viral robbery prank.

The land transportation franchising and regulatory board (LTFRB) ordered a 30-day suspension of the electric taxi unit, while also issuing a show cause order against Green and Smart Mobility Philippines and the vehicle owner following the incident.

The controversy stemmed from a video circulating online in which the driver appeared to announce a robbery before two vloggers entered the vehicle acting as robbers. Although staged as a prank, the video drew criticism from regulators, who said it risked undermining public confidence in commuting.

Don't miss: Care before control: What Green SM's Bekasi response reveals about crisis communications

LTFRB chairperson Vigor Mendoza said the stunt projected the wrong image of public transport safety.

"This is not funny and it causes fear to regular passengers of taxis and TNVS (transport network vehicle service)," Mendoza said. "We will look into this and we assure that appropriate disciplinary measures will be done."

Mendoza also urged public utility vehicle operators and drivers to help restore public trust and confidence in the transport sector.

In a statement, Green GSM said the prank was carried out without its approval or prior knowledge, stressing that it does not permit its vehicles or services to be used for activities that could be perceived as criminal acts.

"The driver involved did not inform the company before participating and did not report the incident immediately thereafter. Green GSM was not involved in the planning, production, or publication of the content, to our knowledge."

The company added that it recognises the concerns raised by the video and reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety.

"Any conduct that could reasonably create fear, alarm, confusion, or the perception of criminal activity is inconsistent with the professional, safety, operational, and customer service standards expected of drivers operating under the Green GSM brand."

"Green GSM does not permit the use of company-affiliated vehicles or services in activities that may lead the public to believe a crime or safety incident is occurring."

The company said it is investigating the incident internally, reviewing safeguards to prevent similar occurrences, and cooperating with the land transportation office where appropriate.

"The safety of our passengers, the trust of the public, and responsible operations remain our highest priorities. Green GSM remains committed to upholding the standards expected by our passengers, partners, regulators, and the communities we serve."

Step into PR Asia Philippines 2026 on 9 September in Manila, where communications leaders will unpack the realities of trust, nationalism, misinformation, and polarisation shaping the country’s evolving narrative landscape.

Related articles:
Green GSM taps PNB to support expansion of all-electric ride-hailing network
VinFast-backed Green GSM plugs into Metro Manila with electric taxi launch
Green SM expands beyond Jakarta with airport, Makassar and Bekasi launches